Area Easter services

Churches list sunrise services, special events

Published: Saturday, March 30, 2013 at 4:30 a.m.

Last Modified: Thursday, March 28, 2013 at 11:55 a.m.

A variety of Easter sunrise services and other religious observances are planned in the area on Sunday.

Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock State Park will host its 58th annual Easter Sunrise Service from 6:30-7 a.m. Sunday, with park gates open from 5 to 6 a.m.

The service attracts more than 1,000 early risers from around the Southeast each year. The interdenominational community celebration includes live spiritual music by local musicians, an inspirational message and — with some cooperation from above — a beautiful sunrise with 75-mile views.

The Rev. David MacEachern, pastor of Bat Cave Baptist Church, is coordinating the music and service. Several other pastors from area churches are participating.

The service will feature bagpipes and John Mason, the park's featured entertainer, on hammered dulcimer. The service also will air live on 1450 WHKP-AM radio and be rebroadcast at noon for those unable to attend.

Limited parking is available in the top lot with additional parking on the Meadows. Shuttle buses will transport guests between the Meadows and top lot. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, dress warmly and bring flashlights.

Church services

Other Easter sunrise and morning worship services are as follows:

English Chapel United Methodist Church, Highway 276 North, just past the Visitor Center in Pisgah Forest: 7 a.m. community sunrise service followed by a 9:30 a.m. regular service and breakfast. Info: 828-884-4506.

Salvation Army Easter services: 7:30 a.m. sunrise service at 3rd Avenue East at Grove Street, followed by breakfast, 10 a.m. Sunday school and 11 a.m. worship service at Jackson Park, Shelter 4. Info: 828-693-4181.

Episcopal Church of St. John in the Wilderness, 1905 Greenville Highway, Flat Rock: 8:45 and 11 a.m. festival Holy Eucharist services. Info: 828-693-9783.

Grace Lutheran Church, corner of 6th Avenue West and Blythe St., Hendersonville: 8:15 a.m. service with sunrise liturgy as worshipers who have gathered outside process into the dark nave; 9:45 a.m. service will follow the traditional Lutheran liturgy; an 11:15 a.m. contemporary service will be led by the praise band. Info: 828-693-4890.

First Presbyterian Church, 699 N. Grove St., Hendersonville: 10:55 a.m. service, The Festival Ensemble will play "Resurrection Prelude, and there will be piano/organ duets by Roberta Radcliffe and Gayle Stepp: "Christ Arose," by Lowry, and "Rondeau," by Mouret. The Adult Choir will sing "Thine is the Glory," arr. Powell, accompanied by Thommy Snead and Karen Grady. The choir and the congregation will join in singing Handel's "Hallelujah Chorus," accompanied by organist Gayle Stepp. Sermon by Pastor Bill. Info: 828-692-3211.